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Trader Joe’s Cheese Board: $35 Budget

trader joes

unexpected cheddar

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This post contains collections of products that I personally recommend (it may contain affiliate links).

cheese board from trader joe's on a budget

The Trader Joe’s budget board has arrived!

Recently I shared a $65 Trader Joe’s Board that has so many of my favorite things. But now I want to show that you can also cut that price down even further without sacrificing quality or style. This is the $35 board and a complete one-stop-shopping list. Are there ways to do it cheaper? Yes, but I still wanted to include some of my faves, like the fig & olive crackers, and a rosemary garnish that really elevates a board. Check out my $50 Aldi Cheese Board too. Happy boarding!

The Trader Joe’s $35 Shopping List

The Cheese

Total spent on cheese: $10.77

Note, I bought three cheeses instead of four. The price of most cheeses depends on the size and weight. If you want variety, you can opt to buy a few smaller cheeses, or two larger ones.

Unexpected Cheddar $3.99

Boursin $3.79

Goat Milk Brie $2.99 (instead of the French Brie for $5.58 I used on the $65 Board, but note that it is smaller in size)

The Meat

Total spent on meat: $2.99

Calabrese $2.99 (I cut out the Salame Secchi for $7.49 from the bigger budget board. Note that Calabrese is spicy).

The Produce

Total spent on produce: $5.58

Prices totally depend on what’s in season. I really wish they had the Thomcord Grapes which look super elegant on a board and are affordable, but instead I went with what they had at the time. Produce in season is always going to be cheaper, so depending on what time of year you’re making this, choose accordingly. When picking up fresh produce, gravitate toward the ones you pay by weight, this will ensure you only pay for what you’ll actually include on your board.

Raspberries $2.99

Apple $0.69 (instead of 5.99 grapes)

Hot House Cucumber $1.49 (only used half of this)

The Extras

Total spent on everything else: $12.55

Fig & Olive Crackers $3.99 (only included one kind. Could have gone cheaper but I think these are special and really elevate a board)

Peanuts $2.99 (instead of the Marcona Almonds for $5.99 I posted about this over on TikTok and was called a “MONSTER” and honestly, I kinda agree, but peanuts are cheap and there were LOTS LEFTOVER!)

Dried Oranges $1.99 (instead of the dried persimmons for $3.49)

Marinated Olive Duo $1.79 (see LEFTOVERS in bowl on top of board)

Rosemary Garnish $1.79

GRAND TOTAL : $35

cheese board using products from trader joe's

Where To Find This Round Board

This is my favorite round board with a lip. The lip makes it perfect for transport (so things don’t fall off). I found it years ago at HomeGoods, never to be found again. However, this past February (2020), there were located again at certain HomeGoods and Marshalls. Many of you found them in store. I was lucky enough to have you purchase a few for me and will be holding a giveaway soon.

But because they are not widely available, I have listed out similar options in the SHOP THIS POST at bottom. Note that this board is approx. 14.5in inside the lip (not counting the handle).

Show Me Your Boards

Nothing makes me happier than seeing you create beautiful and budget-friendly boards from my tips. If you make a spread inspired by this post (especially if it didn’t break the bank), please tag me at @ainttoooproudtomeg and use #AintTooProudToCheese so I can see and share!

And, If you liked this board recipe, please rate and review.